Lonicera x heckrottii Gold Flame

Honeysuckle

Complete Guide to Growing Lonicera x heckrottii ‘Gold Flame’: The Perfect Climbing Honeysuckle

Discover why Lonicera x heckrottii ‘Gold Flame’ ranks among the most popular climbing honeysuckles. This highly scented climber combines beautiful pink and orange-yellow flowers with excellent growing habits, making it perfect for gardens of any size.

What Makes Gold Flame Honeysuckle Special?

This stunning climber produces tubular blooms that appear pink on the outside and orange-yellow inside. The flowers emerge throughout summer, creating a spectacular display.

The fabulously fragrant flowers attract pollinators, while the twining growth habit makes it perfect for pergolas and trellises.

How Do I Plant Gold Flame Honeysuckle?

Choose a spot in full sun or part shade with well-drained soil. Add organic compost to improve soil structure before planting.

Install sturdy supports at planting time, as this vigorous climber needs something substantial to twine around.

What Growing Conditions Does It Need?

Lonicera x heckrottii thrives in most soil types but performs best in fertile, well-drained conditions. It tolerates both sunny and partially shaded positions.

Regular watering during dry weather helps establish young plants. Apply mulch to retain moisture.

When and How Should I Prune?

Maintain shape through regular pruning by removing a third of the flowering shoots after blooming. This encourages new growth and more flowers.

Established plants benefit from annual pruning to prevent them from becoming too dense.

Will It Work With Other Climbers?

Gold Flame pairs beautifully with Clematis montana and other climbing plants. Consider the different flowering times when planning combinations.

The height and spread can reach 4-6 metres, so ensure adequate space for companion plants.

What About Potential Problems?

Watch for aphids in spring and powdery mildew in late summer. Both respond well to biological controls.

Good air circulation helps prevent disease issues. Avoid overhead watering.

How Does It Change Through Seasons?

As a semi-evergreen climber, it may retain some foliage in mild winters. The deep pink and golden yellow flowers bloom from late spring.

Red berries often follow in hot summers, adding extra interest to the display.

Can I Grow It in Different Garden Styles?

This versatile honeysuckle suits both formal gardens and cottage garden settings. It takes up little ground space while providing vertical interest.

The shrubby growth makes it excellent for screening and creating garden features.

What Wildlife Does It Attract?

The tubular flowers attract bees and other pollinators. Ladybirds often visit the foliage, helping control pest problems.

Birds enjoy the red berries when they appear in late summer.

Key Points to Remember:

• Plant in well-drained soil
• Provide strong support structure
• Regular pruning maintains shape
• Flowers pink outside, orange-yellow inside
• Semi-evergreen nature
• Works well with clematis
• Attracts beneficial wildlife
• Reaches 4-6 metres height
• Tolerates sun or partial shade
• Highly scented flowers

Check out the RHS article here.

For more information on climbing plants for your garden please click here.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is Lonicera x heckrottii ‘Gold Flame’?

A: It’s a vibrant climbing plant, also known as the Gold Flame honeysuckle, known for its beautiful pink and orange-yellow flowers and sweet scent during the blooming season.

Q: How do I grow Lonicera x heckrottii?

A: Growing Lonicera heckrottii is straightforward! Just ensure you plant it in well-drained soil, ideally in a sunny spot. It loves to climb, so provide it with support like a trellis or pergola.

Q: Is Lonicera x heckrottii ‘Gold Flame’ deciduous?

A: This climber is considered semi-evergreen, meaning it may retain some foliage in mild winters!

Q: When does Lonicera heckrottii bloom?

A: Lonicera x heckrottii typically blooms from late spring to early summer, showcasing those lovely orange-yellow flowers that may also have a pink-flushed hue!

Q: Can I buy Lonicera x heckrottii ‘Gold Flame’ at my local garden centre?

A: Absolutely! You can usually find this beauty at garden centres or online at Swift Plants.

Q: What kind of maintenance does Lonicera heckrottii require?

A: This plant is low-maintenance! Just ensure you water it regularly, especially during hot summers, and you might want to give it a light prune after flowering to encourage more growth.

Q: What are the benefits of having Lonicera x heckrottii in my garden?

A: Not only does this climber add a pop of colour with its stunning flowers, but it also attracts pollinators and can provide a nice scent in your garden. Plus, it looks great on a pergola or as part of a cottage garden!

Q: Will Lonicera x heckrottii produce any berries?

A: Yes! After flowering, it can produce red berries in hot summers, which can be a delightful addition to your garden as they follow the blooming period.

Q: How do I take care of my Lonicera x heckrottii during winter?

A: Since it’s a semi-evergreen climber, you don’t need to worry too much about winter care. Just ensure it’s in a sheltered location and mulch the base for extra protection against frost.